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Jane, who had matured greatly over the past month, understood perfectly the message conveyed by Mr. Bingley's sisters. She realised that the faint hope she still held in her heart had been extinguished and that she must accept her new reality.

"I understand perfectly, and I sincerely wish you and your brother the very best. I do not wish to interrupt your plans. Thank you for receiving me, despite your many obligations."

"We are the ones who thank you for your understanding," said Louisa, feeling a twinge of guilt.

"We wish you every success in your new life. I hope you understand that, under your present circumstances, a friendship between us is no longer possible. Goodbye, Jane," said Caroline, closing the conversation with finality.

Jane longed to cry, but held back her tears. "Goodbye."

She left the room, and Louisa, though uneasy, admitted to herself that Caroline had done what was necessary. It was best that Jane understood that she was no longer welcome.

Once the unwelcome visitor left, Caroline immediately said to her sister with a mocking smile: "I imagine Eliza working as a governess to some unruly children. I should like to see her and laugh in her face; her infamous impertinence and self-confidence will surely be short-lived."

"I still feel a little sorry for them, but I am not willing to sacrifice our family for their sake," Louisa replied.

Meanwhile, Jane ran several blocks, hoping the movement would help her forget the pain she was feeling. Once she calmed herself, she hailed a carriage to return to Cheapside. Along the way, she wiped her tears and made a quiet resolution.

'The only thing that matters now is my sisters and my mother. Everything I do from this day forward shall be for them,' thought Jane, brushing away the last tears she would shed for Mr. Bingley.

◆◆◆

"I do not know, Aunt. I would prefer that Georgiana have a companion with more experience—and, of course, someone a few years older," said Mr. Darcy, clearly uncomfortable.

He did not appreciate his aunt making arrangements behind his back. They had agreed to interview potential candidates together and determine who was best suited for the position. Yet his aunt had already interviewed three candidates and had even selected a favourite.

"Darcy, your sister needs someone to guide and accompany her.

But more than that, she needs a friend in whom she can confide—someone who can help her overcome her shyness.

You are immensely wealthy; you can hire as many tutors as you please to improve her piano, her painting, her comportment—everything.

But none of those instructors can reach your sister's heart.

I do not know precisely what happened in Ramsgate, but ever since Georgiana returned, she has become even more withdrawn.

If we do not act, what do you suppose will happen in the coming years, when she is expected to make her debut in society?

How will she endure the gossip, the scrutiny, and the parade of women who will befriend her only to gain proximity to you? "

"Aunt, I… I try to involve Georgiana in everything I do. I have even asked the sisters of some of my friends to spend time with her—"

"I am sorry, my dear, but do you not see that those women—Miss Bingley especially—seek Georgiana's company only to ingratiate themselves with you?"

"Well, I suppose… but, Aunt, do you truly believe a paid companion is the answer? To her, time spent with my sister will simply be part of her duties—nothing more."

"You are mistaken, Darcy. Mrs. Annesley genuinely wanted the best for Georgiana, but the difference in age made her seem more an aunt than a friend.

The young lady I interviewed struck me as kind and sincere, and her intentions appeared honourable.

She lost her father and was compelled to seek employment to support her mother and sisters. "

"I am still not convinced…"

"Come to the drawing room. Allow me to introduce you, speak to Georgiana, and then we shall make a decision," said the Countess, resolute.

Mr. Darcy knew his aunt could be quite determined, and he agreed, if only to avoid further argument. "Very well—but I trust that after I meet her, you will allow me to speak with her alone."

"Of course, dear nephew," said Lady Margaret, smiling.

Together, they made their way toward the drawing room where Georgiana and Elizabeth were engaged in conversation. Both were taken aback to hear Georgiana laughing.

Upon entering, Mr. Darcy saw his sister smiling and speaking with animation.

"I also really like apples."

"And do you enjoy apple tart?" Elizabeth asked.

Mr. Darcy had no time to respond to the unfamiliar scene before him, for the moment he heard the voice of the young lady speaking to his sister, he knew it. Though he could not yet see her face, he was certain of who she was.

"Elizabeth, dear, please come and allow me to introduce you to my nephew," the Countess said.

Elizabeth stood at the sound of Lady Margaret's voice and turned. She was stunned to find herself face to face with a gentleman she already knew.

"Nephew, this is Miss Elizabeth Bennet. Elizabeth, this is my nephew—and Georgiana's brother—Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy," the Countess said, smiling, entirely unaware of why her nephew looked so surprised.